Los Angeles art-punkers S.T.U.N. formed in 2000 around guitarist and lyricist Neil Spies, vocalist Christiane J., bassist Nick S., and drummer Bobby Alt. Expanded, the band's name was "Scream Toward the Uprising of Noncomformity," which aptly explains the attitude and activism expressed in Spies' acerbic polemics. After gigging throughout L.A.'s web of bars, clubs, parties, and art galleries, S.T.U.N. graduated to label showcases, where they drew the attention of Geffen, who signed them in spring 2002. Studio time with producer Sean Slade followed, and the debut Evolution of Energy appeared in July 2003. Drawing comparisons to their principal influences of Rage Against the Machine and the Pixies, S.T.U.N. embarked on an extensive North American tour that was to last through the end of the year and beyond. ~ Johnny Loftus, Rovi